Letters 81 - 100 Summary

In letter 81, Merteuil explains to Valmont that he need not worry about her involvement, and belittles his own achievements. She tells of her history as a young woman who learned of sex and pleasure and pain and humiliation. Her husband passed away, and she was determined to overtake the world of men, which she has succeeded, she claims, in doing without harm to her reputation. She admits she will have Prevan, and will cause him harm. Cecile, in letter 82 to Danceny, accuses him of making his misery seem more harmful than her own, and reminds him he is not alone in his suffering.

In letter 83, Valmont writes to Tourvel, asking for a meeting, and reminding her his love is pure. Valmont writes to Cecile in letter 84, and asks that she steal the key to her room from her mother, allowing him...